Brian J. Kopas
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Major: Forest Products
Masters of Science in Manufacturing Systems
Current Job Title: Vice President of Operations
Organization: Foldcraft Company
I became interested in Foldcraft Company when I read a Minneapolis Star Tribune article about employee-owned companies in the state which featured Foldcraft. That very same newspaper carried a classified job posting for a position matching my qualifications. Given my interest, I applied and was successful. I have been with Foldcraft for 14 years and have worked my way up to my present position as VP of Operations.
Folcraft Company
Quality Engineer
Quality Manager
VP of Continuous Improvement
Viking Acoustical
Quality Manager
Weyerhaeuser
QC Process Coordinator
Production Supervisor
Process Engineer
Technical Director
Foldcraft Company is a manufacturer of restaurant furnishings for chains such as Subway, Dairy Queen, Green Mill and others. As VP of Operations, I am responsible for all steps in the process including order entry, engineering, material procurement, manufacturing and shipping. In general, I am responsible for ensuring the business runs well on a daily basis while working to continuously improve everything we do. I am also responsible for working with my fellow senior managment team members to chart the long-term direction for the business (What customers do we want to serve? What products and services do they require? What are our strengths and weaknesses, and what threats and opportunities do we face?) to ensure its continual growth and profitability. While days can be highly variable, a typical day consists of: 20% Administrative detail (meetings, e-mail), 20% walking the shop floor and reviewing area-specific performance, 20% long-range projects such as new products or processes, 10% “crisis” management of problems, and 30% coaching and teaching.
The Production Management curriculum, with its mix of wood science, wood processing, industrial engineering, operations and business management were all instrumental in allowing me to be successful. Electives in financial and managerial accounting have also been critical. It is impossible to rise to senior management without a good understanding of the organization's financials.
At the time, my fellow students and I were very focused on obtaining careers with the major primary converters such as Weyerhaeuser, Georgia Pacific and others; not realizing that there are significant opportunities with the secondary converters such as window, door, cabinet and furniture manufacturers. What surprises me the most today is the difficulty I and others in my field have finding candidates for the technical and leadership positions that we have open. There are more jobs than qualified graduates!
It's important to understand that most people do not stay in a purely technical role as they progress through their careers. Technical skills are important, but leadership, financial, and strategic thinking skills will be critical as one's career progresses. Take the opportunity now to study those topics to better prepare for your future career growth. It's also important to gain industry-related experience, whether it be through an internship or even working at a local building products retailer. These opportunities are easier to come by than you might imagine. Smaller companies such as Foldcraft don't have corporate recruiting staff to establish official internship programs, however, that doesn't mean that we aren't always looking for good people. Also, don't overlook direct labor opportunities even if there are no internships available. Companies such as my own almost always have hourly positions available, and there's no better way to learn a business than by working where the action is at. It's a great opportunity to learn the ropes and distinguish yourself as someone who is willing to learn, work hard, and contribute. Those who do so get noticed in a hurry, and often have a professional position waiting for them when they graduate!
I encourage students to take advantage of mentorship opportunities offered by local graduates such as myself. We remember our time as students and are very willing to help current students chart their paths. Don't be bashful about asking for mentorship, plant tours, or other help!